So, I'm retired and It's a a smaller city city with about 99,147 people. With a population of 99,147, Kenosha is a smaller city. Crime rate is something to consider -Kenosha sits at 310.2 per 100K. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Is this normal for Kenosha? Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The weather takes some getting used to. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The suburbs are where most families end up. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The city has invested a lot in new development. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The city has invested a lot in new development. The suburbs are where most families end up. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The suburbs are where most families end up. The city has invested a lot in new development. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The city has invested a lot in new development. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
13 upvotes
2 Replies
Hannah Price
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 2 years ago from Salt Lake City and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Cedar Grove. It's hit or miss for what you get.
Jobs: The market is established right now, especially in education. If you're in tech you might struggle.
People: Generally average. It took about 17 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: decent. Tons of options if you like Southern.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
32 upvotes
Jacqueline C.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 32, moved here 13 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in Springfield and Uptown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Close to major attractions
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The walkability situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for singles. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- Uptown: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Chicago, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $50K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.